How Much Does It Cost to Open a Coffee Shop in 2026?
Opening a coffee shop in 2026 requires careful cost planning across rent, equipment, labor, technology, menu strategy, marketing, and sustainability.
May 15, 2026
Opening a coffee shop in 2026 requires careful cost planning across rent, equipment, labor, technology, menu strategy, marketing, and sustainability.
May 15, 2026
This AI playbook covers restaurant tools for voice ordering, staffing, compliance, menu pricing, inventory, marketing, ChatGPT prompts, and SEO.
May 15, 2026
Hardee’s giant Boddie-Noell inks 31-unit Scooter’s Coffee deal for NC and VA, leveraging drive-thru growth and local roots with rollout over 12–18 months.
May 15, 2026
Wingstop turns match weeks into a multi-sensory festival, aligning bold pop-ups with World Cup energy to build brand affinity and measurable momentum.
May 15, 2026
The parent company behind Dunkin', Buffalo Wild Wings, and Arby's has filed for an IPO a move that could reshape how Wall Street views the restaurant sector.
May 15, 2026
Learn how to develop a memorable restaurant brand identity that stands out in a crowded market, attracts loyal customers, and drives repeat business with actionable strategies and affordable tools.
May 15, 2026
Dirty soda chain Swig is expanding into Colorado through a 10-unit franchise deal, riding a consumer beverage trend that's catching the attention of major QSR players nationwide.
May 15, 2026
Papa Johns has teamed up with Alphabet's Wing for drone delivery of its new sandwich lineup in parts of Charlotte marking the first partnership of its kind between Wing and a national QSR brand.
May 15, 2026
A warm, expert-led look at McDonald’s Q1 results, menu makeover, and the refranchise question shaping its growth.
May 14, 2026
A reflective look at Habit Ranch, its immersive desert activation, and what it signals for brand loyalty and mindful, experiential dining.
May 14, 2026
Unlock Exclusive Access To Webinars, Events, And The Latest News For Free!
Explore how Damien Harmon, the new President of North America at Subway, is driving franchisee profitability and sustainable growth with his leadership strategies and initiatives.


Damien Harmon's appointment as the President of North America at Subway marks a significant strategic move by the company to enhance its operations and drive growth. With over 20 years of experience in operations, retail, and customer experience, Harmon brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new role. His primary focus includes accelerating sustainable growth, improving franchisee profitability, and elevating the guest experience across North America.
Subway's recent leadership appointments, which include Tracy Gehlan as President of Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, Artemio Garza as President of Latin America and Caribbean, and Jonathan Fitzpatrick as the CEO, signify a collective effort to revitalize the brand and drive it to new heights. Fitzpatrick emphasized the importance of aligning experienced leaders with Subway's vision to propel the brand forward.
Harmon's successful tenure at Best Buy, where he spearheaded initiatives to boost employee engagement and strengthen customer relationships, underscores his ability to deliver exceptional results. His leadership style prioritizes long-term growth and sustainability, which aligns with Subway's goals of creating a thriving franchisee ecosystem.
One of the key areas of Harmon's strategic focus is franchisee profitability. Subway's initiative to provide rebates to franchisees demonstrates a commitment to reinvesting in the business and supporting operators. By offering incentives such as rebates based on sales performance, Subway aims to enhance franchisee profitability and ensure long-term success.
The emphasis on franchisee profitability is crucial in mitigating ongoing unit closures within the U.S. system. By addressing the challenges faced by franchisees and providing financial support through programs like rebates, Subway aims to stabilize and grow its network. Harmon's strategic approach is poised to influence positive change and drive operational resilience.
Harmon's role in overseeing ongoing remodels across the U.S. system signifies a commitment to enhancing the overall guest experience and revitalizing Subway's brand image. By focusing on operational improvements and supporting franchisees, Subway aims to drive sustainable growth and strengthen its position in the market.